What Are the Different Types of Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS)

Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMSs) manage test results, samples, and laboratory processes data. As LIMS expert Sapio Sciences explains (https://www.sapiosciences.com/lims-system), there are several laboratory information management systems in the market. However, what is a LIMS, and what does it do?

The purpose of this article is to describe how LIMS can improve the efficiency of your lab. It will also discuss its key features and how your organisation can benefit from them.

A Comprehensive Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS)

Like any other information system, LIMS offer effective laboratory data management processes. It coordinates laboratory workflows, procedures, results and administration with precision and accuracy. Laboratory personnel within the system access the results based on their clearance level, which maintains patient-doctor confidentiality.

Besides data management, laboratories can integrate various equipment into LIMS to automate data collection, tests and other necessary activities. If the system is well set, auditing and improving controls is possible since every resource and effort input has a paper trail. It not only makes the laboratory process paperless but also limits the number of people coming in contact with laboratory results and findings.

A good Laboratory information management system should have the following traits:

• Easily configurable – you can easily integrate it into an existing health information system. In the absence of a system, LIMS should easily fit into any laboratory process.
• Provide end-to-end information solutions for laboratory records. It should include storage, processing, bio-banks and reference to previous studies. Most importantly, it must show everyone within the system who came in contact with the data.
• Create hierarchies within the system and only provide access to directly involved people.
• Should provide controlled access to third-party interfaces.

List Of Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS)

Research and Development LIMS

Its main work is to create a process to manage laboratory research, capture and manage data generated from the research. Users can also share, analyse and archive data generated from research and development.

Process Development LIMS

Its main job is to develop workflows and map-out laboratory processes. In advanced systems, it automates decisions based on set rules and expectations. Process development LIMS have the best system since data tampering can lead to information distortion.

Bio-analytical LIMS

Science is an analytic discipline where answers result from controlled experiments done over time. This LIMS has pre-set software that helps analyse laboratory data into information. From process initiation to results tabulations, the bio-analytical LIMS uses regulations and set workflows to simplify complex laboratory data.

Benefits Of Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS)

• Inventory management – every equipment or resource used in a LIMS process can be accounted for. Laboratory technicians can use these details to manage stock and, if possible, generate automatic reorder alerts.
• Results tracking and management – LIMS manages data sharing, quality, storage and inference. Cleared personnel within the health pipeline can access and use the information to prepare medication.
• Compliance – the health sector is big on confidentiality as part of the law. The security systems and protocols make it easier for laboratory and health practitioners to keep patient data away from unauthorised people. Only cleared people have access to laboratory results from LIMS.
• Research and development – medicine is still developing, with new technology employed to manage situations. Medical researchers can use the data to develop remedies.
• Accuracy and efficiency – No one can alter the primary results in LIMS. It is the basis from which other calculations and analyses emanate. With a factual background, results from tests and research are accurate and efficient.
• Easy operationalisation – everyone working in the lab has their role cut out. Everyone knows their job descriptions. In case of a work clog, it is easy to identify the person responsible.
• Sample management – in cases where a sample has to undergo several tests, LIMS can help trace every sample and the results. It also records the technician, where it goes next and how it should be stored.
• General laboratory management – it has a hierarchy system that shows roles and reporting structures. A lab manager, technicians and administrators have their input set. In case of anything, the manager knows who to go for.